Imagine having your own drone that can capture breathtaking aerial shots and explore the world from a whole new perspective. In 2021, the popularity of drone photography and videography has skyrocketed, leading to the emergence of several cutting-edge drone models. These drones boast incredible features such as advanced camera systems, impressive flight capabilities, and user-friendly interfaces. Whether you’re an aspiring aerial photographer or simply intrigued by the world of drones, this article will take you through the top four most popular drone models of 2021, offering insights into their unique features and why they have captured the hearts of drone enthusiasts worldwide. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the realm of modern-day drone technology!
DJI Mavic Mini
Compact and lightweight design
The DJI Mavic Mini is known for its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and transport. Weighing in at just 249 grams, it falls below the FAA’s weight threshold for mandatory registration, allowing you to fly it without any additional hassle. Despite its small size, the Mavic Mini doesn’t compromise on performance or features.
12MP camera for capturing high-quality images
Equipped with a 12MP camera, the Mavic Mini is capable of capturing high-quality images with vibrant colors and impressive detail. Whether you’re snapping breathtaking landscapes or capturing precious memories from above, the Mavic Mini’s camera delivers stunning results that are sure to impress.
2.7K video recording capability
In addition to its impressive photo capabilities, the Mavic Mini also supports 2.7K video recording, allowing you to capture smooth and detailed footage. Whether you’re shooting scenic videos or documenting your adventures, the Mavic Mini’s video quality will exceed your expectations.
30 minutes of flight time
The Mavic Mini offers an impressive 30 minutes of flight time on a single charge, allowing you to spend more time in the air and less time worrying about landing and recharging. This extended flight time gives you plenty of opportunities to explore and capture stunning aerial footage.
GPS and vision sensors for stable flight
To ensure a stable and safe flight experience, the Mavic Mini is equipped with GPS and vision sensors. These sensors enable precise hovering and stable flight, even in challenging outdoor environments. With these features, you can fly with confidence and focus on getting the perfect shot.
Intelligent flight modes for added convenience
The Mavic Mini offers a range of intelligent flight modes that make capturing professional-quality footage easier than ever. With features like QuickShots and SmartCapture, you can create impressive aerial videos with just a few taps on your smartphone. These intelligent flight modes take care of the technical aspects, allowing you to focus on your creativity.
Affordable price range
One of the standout features of the Mavic Mini is its affordable price range. Despite its impressive features and performance, the Mavic Mini is priced to be accessible for entry-level drone enthusiasts. This makes it a great option for beginners or anyone looking to dip their toes into the world of aerial photography and videography.
DJI Mavic Air 2
Exceptional image and video quality with 48MP camera
The DJI Mavic Air 2 boasts exceptional image and video quality thanks to its 48MP camera. With this high-resolution camera, you can capture incredibly detailed photos that showcase every intricate detail. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or close-ups, the Mavic Air 2’s camera will deliver stunning results.
4K/60fps video recording capability
When it comes to video recording, the Mavic Air 2 doesn’t disappoint. It supports 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, allowing you to capture silky-smooth footage with incredible clarity and detail. Whether you’re shooting fast-paced action or cinematic slow-motion shots, the Mavic Air 2’s video capabilities are sure to impress.
34 minutes of flight time
With an impressive 34 minutes of flight time, the Mavic Air 2 offers extended flying sessions that give you ample time to explore and capture breathtaking aerial footage. This extended flight time is especially beneficial for professional photographers and videographers who need more time in the air to get the perfect shot.
Advanced obstacle sensing and avoidance
The Mavic Air 2 comes equipped with advanced obstacle sensing and avoidance capabilities, ensuring a safe and worry-free flying experience. With its forward, backward, and downward vision sensors, the drone can detect and avoid obstacles in its flight path, reducing the risk of accidents and collisions.
Improved tracking and subject detection
To make capturing dynamic shots easier, the Mavic Air 2 features improved tracking and subject detection. With ActiveTrack 3.0, the drone can accurately track and follow moving subjects, allowing you to effortlessly capture stunning footage. Whether you’re tracking a person, a vehicle, or an animal, the Mavic Air 2’s tracking capabilities will keep your subject in focus.
Enhanced HDR photo and video modes
The Mavic Air 2’s enhanced HDR modes allow you to capture photos and videos with a wider dynamic range and more detail in both bright and dark areas. With HDR photo mode, the camera takes multiple shots at different exposures and combines them to create a perfectly exposed image. HDR video mode, on the other hand, ensures that your videos have rich colors and accurate exposure, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Intelligent flight modes and QuickShot features
The Mavic Air 2 offers a range of intelligent flight modes and QuickShot features that make capturing professional-quality videos easier than ever. With modes like Rocket, Circle, and Dronie, you can create impressive aerial videos with just a few taps on your smartphone. These intelligent flight modes take care of the technical aspects, allowing you to focus on your creativity and storytelling.
Autel Evo II
8K video resolution for stunning clarity
The Autel Evo II sets the bar high with its breathtaking 8K video resolution. With four times the resolution of 4K, 8K video captures every detail with stunning clarity, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in your footage. Whether you’re shooting cinematic masterpieces or commercial projects, the Evo II’s 8K video resolution will exceed your expectations.
48MP camera for detailed aerial photography
In addition to its impressive video capabilities, the Autel Evo II features a 48MP camera that delivers stunning aerial photography. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, architecture, or wildlife, the Evo II’s high-resolution camera ensures that every shot is packed with detail and clarity. With its 360-degree gimbal rotation, you have complete control over your framing, allowing you to unleash your creativity.
40 minutes of flight time
The Autel Evo II offers an impressive 40 minutes of flight time on a single charge, ensuring that you have plenty of time to capture stunning footage. This extended flight time is particularly useful for professional photographers and videographers who need extended flying sessions to get the shots they need.
Includes obstacle avoidance and tracking features
To ensure a safe and worry-free flying experience, the Autel Evo II includes obstacle avoidance and tracking features. With front, rear, and bottom sensors, the drone can detect obstacles in its path and automatically adjust its flight path to avoid collisions. This gives you peace of mind knowing that the drone will navigate safely, even in complex environments.
Foldable design for portability
The Autel Evo II features a foldable design that makes it easy to transport and take on your adventures. When folded, the drone becomes compact and portable, allowing you to easily fit it into a backpack or carry-on luggage. This portability is especially beneficial for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to capture stunning aerial footage on the go.
Robust flight performance in various weather conditions
With its robust flight performance, the Autel Evo II can handle various weather conditions, allowing you to capture stunning footage even in challenging environments. With its wind-resistant design and stable flight controls, the drone can withstand moderate wind speeds and maintain stable flight, ensuring that your footage remains smooth and steady.
Dual-screen remote controller for easy operation
The Autel Evo II comes with a dual-screen remote controller that provides a user-friendly and intuitive flying experience. The controller features a built-in display and a secondary external display, allowing you to view live footage, access flight settings, and control the drone with ease. This dual-screen setup eliminates the need for a separate smartphone or tablet, streamlining your setup and making it easier to focus on capturing the perfect shot.